ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Line Cook Jobs in Springfield, IL (NOW HIRING)

Applebee's

Line Cook / Prep Cook

Springfield, IL · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

Completes all assigned prep work and sets up cook's station. Maintains product presentations, product quality and cook time standards. Prepares all menu items according to Applebee's Recipes, Plate ...

The Dublin Pub

GRILL COOK

Springfield, IL

$16 - $18/hr

As a Line Cook, you will have the opportunity to learn various culinary techniques and work with a talented team committed to delivering the best dining experience to our guests. Responsibilities:

Red Lobster

Cook

Springfield, IL

$15 - $25/hr

Setting up and stocking prep and line stations * Cleaning, sanitizing, and organizing the kitchen ... Prepping, seasoning, and cooking food according to recipes, quantity calls, and specification while ...

Red Lobster

Cook

Springfield, IL

$15 - $25/hr

Setting up and stocking prep and line stations * Cleaning, sanitizing, and organizing the kitchen ... Prepping, seasoning, and cooking food according to recipes, quantity calls, and specification while ...

Red Lobster

Cook

Springfield, IL · On-site

$15 - $25/hr

Setting up and stocking prep and line stations Cleaning, sanitizing, and organizing the kitchen ... seasoning, and cooking food according to recipes, quantity calls, and specification while ...

Red Lobster

Cook

Springfield, IL · On-site

$15 - $25/hr

Setting up and stocking prep and line stations * Cleaning, sanitizing, and organizing the kitchen ... Prepping, seasoning, and cooking food according to recipes, quantity calls, and specification while ...

Red Lobster

Cook

Springfield, IL

$15 - $25/hr

Setting up and stocking prep and line stations * Cleaning, sanitizing, and organizing the kitchen ... Prepping, seasoning, and cooking food according to recipes, quantity calls, and specification while ...

Bella Milano

Cook

Springfield, IL · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

Tired of pre-made sauces and microwaves, and want to cook? Tired of corporate rules and not being recognized for your work? Bella Milano is a locally owned family business that cares about its ...

Bella Milano

Cook

Springfield, IL · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

Tired of pre-made sauces and microwaves, and want to cook? Tired of corporate rules and not being recognized for your work? Bella Milano is a locally owned family business that cares about its ...

Golden Corral

Cook

Springfield, IL · On-site

$14 - $18.50/hr

The Cook is responsible for the quality, quantity, tastiness, and freshness of all Hot Choice Buffet products. The Cook pays special attention to speed, cleanliness, organization, and product ...

Helia Healthcare

DIETARY ASSOCIATE - COOK

Taylorville, IL · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

... line menu items and therapeutic diets. * A culinary apprenticeship or training is preferred ... Restaurant, cooking and/or culinary experience preferred. The Fine Print (Still Important!): Offers ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

People also search for

All JobsLine Cook JobsLine Cook Jobs in Springfield, IL

Line Cook information

See Springfield, IL salary details

$9

$16

$21

How much do line cook jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for line cook in Springfield, IL is $16.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.00 and $18.80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Are Line Cooks?

A line cook is a restaurant staff member who works in the kitchen, usually working a particular station on the line during service. As a line cook, your responsibilities and duties may include setting your station mise en place, firing food to order, and plating food. Line cooks work at a station, for example, the grill or fryer, but they are cross-trained to work any position in the kitchen. Your job is to work as a team with the entire kitchen staff to prepare meals that are consistently high in quality and delivered rapidly to the front of the house.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Line Cook, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Line Cook, you need strong culinary skills, attention to detail, and knowledge of food safety, typically gained through experience or culinary training. Familiarity with kitchen equipment, point-of-sale (POS) systems, and health code certifications such as ServSafe are often required. Teamwork, adaptability, and the ability to perform well under pressure are essential soft skills in this fast-paced role. These skills and qualities ensure efficient kitchen operations, high-quality food, and a safe dining experience for customers.

What are some common challenges faced by line cooks, and how can they be overcome?

Line cooks often face fast-paced environments where multitasking and time management are essential. Managing multiple orders simultaneously and maintaining consistency in food quality can be challenging, especially during peak hours. Building strong communication with the kitchen team and staying organized at your station can help you overcome these challenges. Additionally, developing efficient prep habits and staying calm under pressure will contribute to your success as a line cook.

Do line cooks make a lot of money?

Line cooks typically earn an hourly wage that varies by location and experience, with median pay around minimum wage to slightly above, and some earning tips that can increase total income. Experienced line cooks working in busy restaurants or with specialized skills may earn higher wages, but overall, the position is considered an entry-level culinary role with moderate pay. Advancement opportunities and tips can significantly impact total earnings.

What is the job of a line cook?

A line cook is responsible for preparing and cooking food on the restaurant's line, following recipes and quality standards. They work in a fast-paced environment, often using commercial kitchen tools and equipment, and must adhere to food safety regulations. Strong knife skills and the ability to work under pressure are essential for this role.

What is the difference between Line Cook vs Prep Cook?

AspectLine CookPrep Cook
ResponsibilitiesPrepares menu items during service, follows recipes, manages stationPrepares ingredients, washes, chops, and preps food for cooking
Work EnvironmentKitchen during service hours, fast-pacedKitchen during prep hours, less hectic
CredentialsFood handler’s permit often required, culinary training optionalFood handler’s permit, basic culinary skills
Industry UsageCommonly employed in restaurants, hotels, cateringFound in similar settings, supports line cooks

While both roles work in kitchens and require food safety knowledge, a Line Cook actively prepares dishes during service, whereas a Prep Cook focuses on preparing ingredients beforehand. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

More about Line Cook jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Line Cook jobs in Springfield, IL? The most popular types of Line Cook jobs in Springfield, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Line Cook jobs in Springfield, IL? For Line Cook jobs in Springfield, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Line Cook jobs in Springfield, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Line Cook jobs in Springfield, IL are:
What cities near Springfield, IL are hiring for Line Cook jobs? Cities near Springfield, IL with the most Line Cook job openings:
Line Cook jobs near you
Infographic showing various Line Cook job openings in Springfield, IL as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $35,266 per year, or $17 per hour.
Line Cook / Prep Cook

Line Cook / Prep Cook

Applebee's Grill & Bar

Springfield, IL

$15 - $18/hr

Full-time

Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 3 days ago

Applebee's rating

5.6

Company rating: 5.6 out of 10

Based on 719 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

60th of 85 rated restaurants

Job description

JOB DESCRIPTION

Primary Responsibilities

  • Completes all assigned prep work and sets up cook’s station. Maintains product presentations, product quality and cook time standards. Prepares all menu items according to Applebee’s Recipes, Plate Presentations and specifications.


Specific Functions and Duties

  • Prepares menu items according to Applebee’s Recipes, Plate Presentations and specifications (50%*).
  • Completes all assigned prep work (15%*).
  • Sets up workstation according to station diagram (15%*).
  • Practices sanitary and safe food handling at all times (10%*).
  • Cleans and sanitizes the work area before, during and after shift (5%*).
  • Completes assigned daily and weekly cleaning projects (5%*).

BENEFITS

  • Employee meals 1/2 off
  • Closed Christmas and Thanksgiving
  • MEC Ins
  • 401K - ONLY IN ILLINOIS LOCATIONS (DOES NOT INCLUDE IOWA & WISCONSIN LOCATIONS)
  • Flexible work schedule
  • Vision insurance
  • Dental insurance
  • Online Universities
  • College Scholarships

REQUIREMENTS
  • Able to place plates, utensils, pans and cases on high and low shelves.
  • Reading, writing and verbal communication skills required.
  • Capable of using knives, slicing equipment and other food preparation equipment.
  • Mobility required during the entire shift.
  • Transports cases up to 50 pounds up to 20 times per day.
  • Able to respond in emergency situations to avoid imminent dangers to self and others.
  • Must be able to speak clearly and listen attentively to employees, dining room staff, and guests.
  • Must be able to stand and exert well-paced mobility for periods of up to six (6) hours in length. Must have the ability to lift pots, pans, etc., up to 40 pounds in weight.
  • Must be able to read and write to facilitate communication.
  • Must possess finger and hand dexterity for using small tools and equipment.

ABOUT THE COMPANY

It all started in 1980 in Atlanta, Georgia


Bill and TJ Palmer opened the restaurant that would later become Applebee’s. We’ve grown up a lot since then, with almost 2,000 locations in the U.S. and around the world. Here you will always be welcome – for delicious food, in a neighborhood setting, with attentive service, at a great value.

What Applebee's employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom